Celtic Crusaders win close contest in Arklow

Publish Date: 15 Jul 2017 - 3650 views

Celtic Crusaders edged ahead in the top three, which were seperated by only 0.15 of a point.

The Irish season got underway on Saturday July 15th in Arklow Celtic Football Club. The conditions were somewhat difficult for groups, as high temperatures and high gusts took to the field with them.

Celtic Crusaders, from Mullingar had started their season at Rasteder Musiktage two weeks ago, and it proved beneficial as they increased their score by 2.70 points. Their show "Pulse" also picked up caption awards in High Effect, High Field Music and a tie with Clondalkin Youth Band in High Visual.

The scores in the top three were extremely close. Visiting corps from Northampton in England were just 0.10 behind Celtic Crusaders with their production "The Bench". The music programme included Coldplays "Fix You" and "Morning" from Peer Gynt by Edvard Greig. The show centred around a bench and more particularly a bench which a homeless man used as his home. The theme was well portrayed by the use of props and guard.

The close scoring continued as Clondalkin Youth Band were placed third with the seperation of only 0.05 behind Liberty Drum Corps. Their show was called "The Book" and told the story of The Book of Kells, a book of great historical importance in Ireland.

The tight scoring didn't finish there, as Inbhear Mor Performance Ensemble and Vikings Drum Corps were seperated by just 0.15, which leaves the rest of the season very unpredictable in Ireland.

The contest in Arklow was hosted by Inbhear Mor Performance Ensemble, who celebrated 25 years in existence. Director Mary Kirwan spoke to the large audience and thanked the local and banding community for their continued support. She also presented their longest serving member, Oisin Molloy with a momento of his hard work and dedication.

The Irish Championships take place in Mullingar on Saturday September 2nd. More information on their facebook page here.

Results:

5th Vikings Drum Corps (41.45)
4th Inbhear Mor Performance Ensemble (41.60)
3rd Clondalkin Youth Band (50.55)
2nd Liberty Drum Corps (50.60)
1st Mullingar Town Band - Celtic Crusaders (50.70)